Please help me get round the Oxford Half Marathon as fast as I can on 17th October as I look to raise money for grass roots sport in our rural community.

I coach the Under 7s team (all from my son's class in Whitchurch) in a local football club with four other teams of boys and girls based in North Marston, Buckinghamshire. As a small club run by dedicated volunteers, sponsorship is an important source of income for us and any contribution you can make goes towards providing the kit needed to make football a fun and safe sport for the kids.

This is my first organised competitive race in 20 years (!!) and I'd love to complete it in 90 minutes, which for my age range (!!!) will be tough. The training is going well, but I'm still looking to save a few more elusive minutes. Help spur me on and push through the pain, by giving what you can - whatever the amount, your generosity is much appreciated.

Thanks a million - Michael